Let me start by saying that I was never a whisk(e)y drinker, but I do enjoy learning about new things and understanding how to appreciate classic beverages. I started with craft beer, and after a recommendation from a friend, I decided that I would give whiskey a real try.
I have had Jack Daniel's before, but was not a huge fan. The bold and strong taste was not palatable straight up. Along with being encouraged to explore the world of whiskey, Taconic was the place where I chose to start.
Taconic is a small distillery in upstate New York. They produce several different spirits and a wonderful Maple Syrup. All of their products are hand bottled and numbered. From a little research on their website and social media, became enamored with the brand. Locally owned, focused on quality, selling what seemed to be a quality product at a fair price, and a love of dogs, I was excited to try out their bourbon.
Taconic Distillery's Duchess Princess Reserve offered all the delicious nose that is common with bourbons like vanilla, honey and oak. The flavor also did not disappoint, complexity without the aggressive "burn" made it a great starting point to drinking whiskey neat.
It opened the door in a big way and now I have tried lots of whiskys from around the world, including the more common Macallen and Buffalo Trace, to W.L. Weller, Ardbeg and Hibiki Harmony. For more whiskey content, check out my Instagram for weekly whiskey reviews.